FIFA has launched an investigation into an alleged racist incident that occurred off the pitch during Argentina's victory over Cape Verde in a World Cup match on Friday.
The incident took place at the Miami Stadium during the Round of 32 game and involved popular streamer IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Watkins Jr., and a fan wearing an Argentina jersey.
While IShowSpeed was livestreaming, he was heard questioning a fan about what had just been said to him. Multiple outlets reported that the fan appeared to tell the streamer, who is Black, to "go cry to the zoo" in Spanish.
FIFA issued a statement on Tuesday condemning the alleged behavior. "FIFA strongly condemns racism, hate and discrimination in all forms," the statement read. "These actions have no place in football, at the FIFA World Cup, or anywhere in society. FIFA was made aware of an incident involving a supporter and IShowSpeed at Miami Stadium during the Argentina vs. Cabo Verde match on 3 July 2026 and immediately initiated an investigation."
The organization emphasized the tournament's values, stating, "The FIFA World Cup is a celebration of unity, diversity and respect. It brings together people, cultures and communities from around the world, and anyone who acts in a manner that undermines these values is not welcome in our game."
IShowSpeed, who boasts over 50 million YouTube subscribers and tens of millions of followers across Instagram and TikTok, has not yet publicly commented on the situation. He has previously streamed during World Cup matches, with appearances from notable figures like FIFA president Gianni Infantino and former soccer star Zlatan Ibrahimović.
This investigation follows a separate incident where a Paraguayan senator made racist remarks about French star Kylian Mbappé. Mbappé described the comments as "despicable," and the French Football Federation indicated it would pursue legal action against the senator.